This is a big one, arguably the biggest one, as almost half a million folks from all over the world are expected to descend upon the Richmond Region to watch about 1,000 of the world's top cyclists from 75 countries compete!

September 19-27 are going to be eight of the most exciting days in Richmond Region history!

Let's talk about why we're glad the world is going to ride in Richmond.

1. The Race

The UCI Road World Championships are a big a deal. They're sort of like the World Cup of cycling. National teams compete across 12 events ranging in age group and skill level.

2. Richmond Already Loves Bikes

Check out this video we made to show the world how Richmonders are already bike crazy:

3. A More Bike Friendly Richmond

Sports Backers jumped on the bike bandwagon early in 2012 by starting Bike Walk RVA. Through collaboration with the city, these efforts will result in 20+ miles of urban bikeways before Richmond 2015 and all sorts of quality of life improvements for the bicycling inclined visitors and residents of the Richmond Region.

4. The Virginia Capital Trail

The Virginia Capital Trail is set for completion September 1. The trail, when complete, "will traverse approximately 52 miles, four jurisdictions, and more than 400 years of history along one of the first inland routes in North America." That means a full century ride for all the hardcore cyclists out there.

5. Everything Else

We really can't wrap our heads around the enormity of this thing. It's going to be amazing. Locals Ben King and Andrea Dvorak will be riding in the race. We're pumped about that. Libby Hill is going to be a beast and amazing place to watch the race. We're jazzed. Lewis Ginter is gonna have a whole mess of bike related activities and exhibits. There are gonna be concerts and festivals and events and all kinds of stuff. We're excited! (Can you tell?)

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